“...this has enough material to keep any serious concertina player busy for some time...
”- Jim Fray, Wisconsin
Learn to play the concertina with our CD ROM concertina tutorial. Concertina instruction is provided by our concertina tutor Niall Vallely. Video and audio files combine with music notation, text and photos to make the learning process as easy as possible.
Niall Vallely has developed a unique approach to concertina playing: the fluidity and precision heard in his playing is a testament to both his musicality and technical mastery. He has established himself as one of Irish music's most exciting performers through his work with Nomos, Karan Casey, and in a solo capacity. Niall has extensive teaching experience at home and abroad including 8 years as concertina tutor in the Music Department of University College Cork.
The tutorial caters for all levels from the absolute beginner to very advanced players. The tutorial also includes a performance piece and an interview with the tutor.
Beginners
In the beginners' section the Anglo-concertina keyboard is simplified by initially dividing it into sections, and Niall demonstrates the basic skills of playing the instrument using easy, slow-paced tunes. Jigs and Reels are then introduced and ornaments are added gradually. The individual parts of these tunes are demonstrated on video at a slow pace and the full tune is subsequently demonstrated at a medium pace so that you can play along.
Topics Covered:
- 14 Tunes
- Pop-up Video Screens
- Reading Music
- Precise Musical Notation
- Notes and Scales on the Anglo-concertina
- Easy Airs
- Beginners' Jigs and Reels
- Three-Note Triplets
- Cuts and Grace Notes
- Triplets
- Jigs and Reels with Ornamentation
Advanced
“...bravo, good selection of material, lots on cuts, crans, and other ornamentations. I really like his “no home row” approach. He gets the student using the full capacity of the instrument very quickly...”
- Randall Merris
The advanced section features jigs and reels that are more highly ornamented. The scope of the tunes is broadened and the extensive keyboard is fully explored. Niall also introduces ornamental techniques unique to his style.
Topics Covered:
- 18 Tunes
- Double Cuts
- Crans
- Staccato Triplets
- Niall’s ‘concertina roll’
- Utilizing alternative keys
- Barn Dance, Slide, Hornpipes and Slip Jigs